Early Morning Revelations

On a hike in the remote Redington Pass, a couple friends, their kids and dog went on a trek to discover....whatever. Water was involved and it was a win win for everyone....including the dog:) 

So while walking along the canyon walls, we noticed yet one more Great Horned Owl flying around the canyon.  It stopped on this rock to look down upon us.

And then there were the isolated pools of water full of the endemic Gila Chubs only found in and around our Tucson area. 

We also set up an interview with Kermit the Frog's cousin, Rene La Rana.  His mother and father came from Mexico and became citizens here in this canyon.  He gave us permission to film his family of the fast Tree Canyon Frogs.

We hummed and sang as we walked along the rocky river bed....stopping here and there to throw a stick in the water for the dog to go after.  The kids would pick things up and say, "LOOK WHAT I FOUND!"  Adults snapped pictures of those things:)

But I should have seen the signs like the one below.  I believe these were filmed in Gladiator during the death scene, but we didn't care.....because life was good....a bit hot in the early morning.....but good.

A yellow warbler could be heard in this Eden.  And so we all chased after this yellow jewel in the lush Cottonwood Canopy.  But things would quickly change once we ventured near the tree.......

Quite by accident, one of the gang almost stepped on the rattlesnake.  It perfectly blended into the surroundings.  I nearly crapped myself and felt the heebie jeebies crawl up and down my spine....but I thought this guy was pretty cool.  So much for the yellow warbler......next time!

Everyone began to think about their mortality at this point and started to ask one another, "How many more of these have we passed by and not even known about?"  We all knew the answer and hastily hiked back to the car on top of the canyon.  The dog was attached to a leash and the kids had shock collars on to keep them from poking, prodding, or handling "the snake".  You see the boy wished to prod it because that's what little boys do.  But being that this snake is poisonous and the anti venom costs around 2 thousand dollars, everyone decided to step back and slowly walk away.

It was amazing how much life can be found in several of our remote areas.  During our hot summer months, remember that many many lizards...includings snakes.....will be out sunning or in the shade.  Keep your eyes out for them at all times.  They will leave you alone most of the time.  However, if frightened, they will coil and rattle....then strike.  So watch where you put your hands while climbing up onto rocks etc. Our desert is an amazing place.  Most Tucsonans don't realize what's around them, but we did......and it was awesome.  Redington Pass is a remote place at the end of Tanque Verde Road.  Off road vehicles, hunters, hikers(nude or clothed), and water lovers head to this secret little gem which is hidden from most Tucsonans.  It can be dangerous and never go during monsoon season because the creek can turn suddenly into a raging river.  Many go to see the waterfalls and swim in the river.

More tomorrow....